Utilities Setup Checklist for New Minnesota Renters

Setting up utilities is a key step when moving into a new rental home in Minnesota. Whether you are a first-time renter or experienced with leasing, understanding your responsibilities—and your landlord's—regarding utilities is essential. This checklist will guide you through the process, highlight legal protections under Minnesota law, and direct you to official resources and forms for a smooth move-in.

What Utilities Should I Set Up?

Common utilities for Minnesotan rental homes and apartments include:

• Electricity
• Natural Gas or Heating Fuel
• Water and Sewer
• Trash and Recycling
• Internet and Cable

Be sure to check your lease agreement or ask your landlord which utilities you are responsible for and which are included in your rent. Minnesota law does not require landlords to pay for all utilities, unless described in your written lease.^[1]

Key Steps: Your Minnesota Utilities Setup Checklist

• Review your lease to see which utilities are included and which you must arrange.
• Contact each utility provider at least 1–2 weeks before move-in for service activation.
• Ask for copies of all utility payment histories, if owed by the landlord, as allowed by the Minnesota Statutes – Utility Payment Disclosure.^[2]
• Take photos or record utility meter numbers and readings on your move-in day for a clear record.
• Keep all utility setup confirmations and payment receipts for your records.

Who Handles Utility Disclosures?

Under Minnesota Statutes §504B.215 (Residential Tenant Utility Disclosure), landlords must inform renters in writing of:

• Which utilities you are responsible for and to whom payments should be made
• If utilities are shared (master-metered) with other units
• How utility charges are divided if service is not separately metered

Official Forms for Utility Disclosures and Tenant Rights

• Residential Tenant Utility Disclosure Statement
  This is not a standardized state-issued form, but your landlord is legally required to provide written disclosure about utilities before you sign the lease. If the landlord is responsible for paying the utility but doesn't, you may have rights to withhold rent or pay for the service and deduct from rent. In such cases, formal written notice is essential.^[2]
• Utility Shut-off Notice Complaint (Minnesota Commerce Department)
  Used if your rental faces a utility shut-off due to non-payment by the landlord on a landlord-paid account. File a complaint with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission or Commerce Department. You can learn more or file here: Public Utilities Commission Consumer Complaint Page.

What If There’s a Problem with Utilities at Move-in?

If promised utilities are not working at move-in or you receive a shut-off notice, Minnesota law gives you options:

• Request repair or utility connection in writing from the landlord as a first step.
• You may be able to file an Emergency Tenant Remedies Action (Form HOU1201) with Minnesota District Court to restore essential services.
  Example: You moved in to find no heat or water despite your lease promising those are included. Fill out Form HOU1201 and file it with your local court to request an urgent hearing.^[3]

The Minnesota Judicial Branch housing courts handle tenant claims about essential services and housing code violations.^[3]

Summary: Ensuring a Smooth Utilities Setup

Carefully check your lease, use written communication, and take clear records of all meters and notices. If you facing issues, Minnesota law provides strong tools to protect your right to a safe and livable rental home, including how to address utility shut-offs and which forms and offices can help. For detailed legal guidance, review the Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Law, Chapter 504B.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t disclose the utility payment arrangement?
   If your landlord does not provide written utility disclosure before you sign your lease, request it in writing. Minnesota law requires they share this information, especially regarding shared meters. Keep records in case you need to file a complaint or seek help.
2. Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I’m late on rent?
   No. Under Minnesota law, landlords cannot shut off or interfere with essential services like electricity, water, or heat as a way of dealing with late rent or eviction. This is considered unlawful "self-help."
3. Who do I contact in case of a utility shut-off for non-payment by my landlord?
   Contact the Public Utilities Commission and, if needed, submit an Emergency Tenant Remedies Action in housing court. Keep all shut-off notices and communications as evidence.
4. Am I responsible for back utility bills from the previous tenant?
   No. Utility accounts are usually tied to the property, not the individual. However, always confirm with the utility provider to avoid surprises and ensure your services start fresh at move-in.
5. What is a master-metered utility and how does it affect me?
   A master-metered building means one utility meter serves all or multiple rental units. In Minnesota, landlords must disclose how charges are split and how your share is calculated according to state law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General Renter Handbook – Plain-language guide to rights and responsibilities
• Minnesota Housing Court (District Court) – Handles emergency and routine rental disputes
• Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Consumer Assistance
• LawHelpMN – Repairs and Utilities Issues
• For questions about state tenancy legislation: Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B (Landlord-Tenant Law)

---

1. Minnesota landlord-tenant law: Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B
2. Utilities and billing disclosures: Minnesota Statutes §504B.215 – Utility Disclosure
3. Official Minnesota housing court forms and information: Minnesota Courts Housing Forms

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations